On Tuesday, Jeddah — The King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah) witnessed chaotic scenes caused by large numbers of departing passengers arriving ahead of their flights’ scheduled time.
The enormous numbers of these departing pilgrims coming to the Jeddah airport well before their flight time triggered the overcrowding. Most had to squat on floors in the lounges and the parking area.
In addition to the pilgrims, the holiday season travelers added to the crush. The long winding lines and luggage trolleys made passage inside the airport challenge.
Officials pointed at Tawafah establishments for the congestion. These companies brought their pilgrims to the airport at least 12 hours before the flight’s departure time.
Although the airport administration is working around the clock to thin out the overcrowding, all efforts to organize the order in the airport are taking time. But they have reassured us that all flights will depart on time.
“The main reason behind the huge number of pilgrims at the airport is a lack of commitment from the Haj companies to the flight schedules,” an official said.
Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has warned these companies of strict fines and punitive measures of banning them for one year.
